March 2008
Quick Guide to Trick Interview Questions
The purpose of the trick question is to garner an unrehearsed response to a question whose answer is of paramount importance to the role you are filling. For example, if you are hiring for a service position at your prestigious country club and your company culture is that of complete and utter catering to the customer’s every whim, then you might ask a question like this:
The Trick Question:
Where do you feel the boundary should be drawn between a customer going too far in their requests from staff, and staff providing superior service? And, can you give me an example?
The Trick:
Your question implies that there is a boundary and most applicants will fall for it and will usually provide an example of some ridiculous request made by a customer in their past. This is an average answer. The ideal answer for this question might be something more along the lines of, “Well, other than bodily harm, I cannot think of or imagine a request that is out of line. After all, the customers are paying dearly, and if I can make it happen, I will.” That's the answer you are looking for.
No job interview should be without at least one trick question. However, if all of your questions are designed to trick the applicant, then you might need some professional counseling. Otherwise, think about the one or two areas where you see a gap between what you expect and what you are getting from current staff and try to design some questions to ferret out the people who already embrace the skills you need.
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Prepared exclusively for clients of Brenda Abdilla and Management Momentum — Sent Mid-Monthly
